Our local COVID hospitalization average is rapidly approaching the threshold from Stage 5 into Stage 4, while the number of COVID patients in Texas hospitals has dropped below 10,000 for the first time since the Omicron wave began in December. The citywide boil water notice enters a third day as the City opens a seventh free water refill site. The Austin City Council is expecting a full report on the cause of Austin's water issues by the end of the week, as that body welcomes Jose "Chito" Vela, it's newest Member representing District 4. Speed limits on thoroughfares across the city are being reduced as part of the Vision Zero initiative. A federal judge has found the U.S. Air Force liable for $230 million in damages, owed to the victims of the Sutherland Springs mass church shooting in 2017 and their survivors. Austin FC announces a match between Mexican champion soccer teams at Q2 Stadium next month. The Who announces a concert at the new Moody Center on May 3. SXSW Music and Film wristbands are on sale today. A UT biology professor suspects that gin may have been the cure for her cedar allergies (they come from the same plant). And more gorgeous, springlike weather continues through Friday.
